How to Replace a Light Switch

Turn off power at the breaker, remove the old switch by unscrewing it and disconnecting the wires, then connect the same wires to your new switch and reinstall.

1. Kill the Power First. Locate the correct circuit breaker and turn it off. Use a non-contact voltage tester or flip the switch to confirm power is off. Never skip this step - electrical work with live wires can be deadly.
2. Extract the Old Switch. Unscrew the switch plate cover and set it aside. Remove the two screws holding the switch to the electrical box and carefully pull the switch out. You'll see wires attached to the side terminals.
3. Document Before You Disconnect. Snap a quick photo of the wire connections before disconnecting anything. Loosen the terminal screws and remove each wire. Standard switches typically have two black wires and possibly a ground wire.
4. Wire It Exactly Right. Attach the wires to your new switch exactly as they were on the old one. Wrap each wire clockwise around its terminal screw and tighten firmly. The ground wire connects to the green screw if present.
5. Verify It Works. Carefully fold the wires back into the box and push the switch in. Secure it with the mounting screws, replace the cover plate, and turn the breaker back on. Test the switch to ensure it works properly.